essay on my favourite book sherlock holmes

Paragraph on My Favourite Book

Books are our best friends because they teach us a lot of values. We read a lot of books, but some of them remain our favourites that we love most. Paragraph on my favourite book will describe the book you like most and the reason why you love it most. In this post, we described two types of paragraph writing: the short form and the long form.

Short Paragraph on my Favourite Book (200 Words)

Sherlock Holmes is one of my all-time favourites. The adventure story of iconic detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusty sidekick, doctor John Watson, yes, they encounter some complex and mysterious crime cases in London.

The reason that I like Sherlock Holmes the most is because of its awesome storytelling and intricate plots. The author Arthur Conan Doyle’s ability to describe the clues and hints into a mysterious crime that only Sherlock Holmes can solve is truly remarkable. The personality of Sherlock Holmes itself makes him different; his sharp, intelligent mind makes him stand out. The author gives a brief description of cities architecture, culture, and people.

The stories of Sherlock Holmes are not only entertaining but also encourage the reader to think critically. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves mystery, an intriguing plot, and unforgettable characters.

Long Paragraph on my Favourite Book (300 Words)

Points: Name of Your Favourite Book – Author Name – Story of the Book – Reason Why You Like It Most The lesson you learned from your favourite book – Conclusion

Reading is my favourite pastime. I always enjoy reading books, and among the books I enjoy reading the most are novels. I have read a lot of novels, but Chander Pahar is one of my all-time favourites. Chander Pahar was written by renowned Bengali author Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay . The author, Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay, is known for the rural Bengali areas sketched in his novel.

The story of Chander Pahar revolves around a village boy named Shankar’s adventure experience in the dense forests of Africa. Throughout the story, the author tries to sketch Shankar’s journey as one filled with adventure, danger, and excitement. The details of the African landscape with wild animals like Bunip and all the dangerous encounters by Shankar are breathtaking. The author’s vivid description will transform the reader into Shankar’s world, which is unparalleled.

The story will keep the reader engaged and hooked until the end. The story of Chander Pahar inspires readers to explore the world and embrace adventure. The story teachers ask a lot of life lessons: following the conventional path is not the only way to success; we should explore new horizons and face our fears.

Overall, Chander Pahar is highly adventurous as well as very inspiring; the vivid description and some inspirational messages are incomparable. I think people who love adventure and exploring new things should read this book once.

You can write this paragraph if your examination has asked the question “ My favourite book essay “.

How do I write a paragraph in my favorite book?

To write a paragraph about your favourite book, first mention the name of the book along with the author’s name. Secondly, mention the reason why you like this book most. Finally, write down the value you learned from the book.

What is your favorite book and why ?

My favourite book is Chander Pahar. The book taught me that following the conventional path is not the only way to success; we should explore new horizons and face our fears.

Who is the writer of Chander Pahar ?

Chander Pahar is written by the great Bengali author Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay.

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Sherlock Holmes: a Study of His Characteristics

Categories: The Great Gatsby

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Intellectual brilliance, eccentricity and quirks, morality and integrity.

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The Enduring Appeal of Sherlock Holmes

How author vicki delany fills her fictional bookshop with all things 221b baker street..

What is it about Sherlock Holmes that has captured the popular imagination arguably more than any other figure in fiction? Is it his incredible intellect that has us all enthralled? Is it the gaslit streets, the long dresses, frock coats and top hats? Maybe it’s the sometimes-stiff, formal language. Is it Dr. John Watson himself, ever confused but always loyal, or the simple friendship between two such different men?

Regardless of the reason, there’s no doubting the continuing popularity of the Great Detective.

When I first had the idea of setting a cozy mystery series in a store dedicated to all things Sherlock Holmes, I wondered if it might be a stretch trying to stock such an establishment. After all, it sounds like a very specialized niche, and there aren’t that many books. Are there?

A bit of research quickly showed me that such a thing would be not only possible, but easy to pull together.

And thus, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium, located at 222 Baker Street, West London, Massachusetts, was born and I set about stocking my virtual store.

Aside from the original Holmes books by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, there’s a plethora of pastiche novels and short story collections, either continuing the adventures of Holmes and Watson, or reimagining other characters in their image. Modern interpretations are no longer limited to the gaslit, fogbound streets of the greatest city in the world, the ‘smiling and beautiful countryside’ or the ‘lowest and vilest alleys in London’ but are set in just about any time or place imaginable.

The protagonist in my Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series, Gemma Doyle, is herself a recreation of Sherlock. I had great fun reimagining Sherlock Holmes as a modern young woman, with the ever confused but always loyal Jayne Wilson at her side.

Every item mentioned in the books that is for sale or from the Emporium exists in the real world. (Except for the obvious exception of a visiting author who drops dead at the signing table in the second book in the series, Body on Baker Street !)

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is best known for the detective he created, but he wrote many other books, and there are numerous biographies of him and his contemporaries, plus non-fiction works to do with the Canon and their offshoots. And then there are the stage plays, TV shows and movies, virtually countless , of which some of the best-known star actors ranging from Basil Rathbone to Jeremy Brett to Benedict Cumberbatch. There are many books on the making of those productions.

For the Emporium part of my fictional store, I stock games, puzzles, mugs, decorative plates, dolls, finger puppets, socks, T-Shirts, calendars, cardboard cut-outs of the actors. The choices are endless.

But Gemma’s store is primarily a bookstore and here are some of the most popular titles found there. Aside, of course, from the original Canon.

For nonfiction lovers, From Holmes to Sherlock by Mattias Bostrom is a masterful and comprehensive look at the entirely of the phenomena from its creation by Doyle, to the many modern interpretations.

One of the most popular pastiche series, if not THE most popular, is the Mary Russell/Sherlock Holmes books by Laurie R. King. The first book, The Beekeeper’s Apprentice , introduces 14 year old orphan Mary Russell to us and to Sherlock. He soon realizes he’s met someone who thinks exactly as he does, and he takes her under his wing. Time passes, the characters age and grow, and their relationship changes. Castle Shade , the 17th book in the series, takes Russell and Holmes (as they continue to address each other) to a castle in Romania, supposedly the haunt of vampires.

To Sherlock Holmes she was always The Woman. What happened to her, we wonder, after Irene Adler married Geoffrey Norton in a ceremony witnessed by Holmes in disguise? Find out in the four book series by the Late Carol Nelson Douglas. The first is titled Good Night, Mr. Holmes , derived from Adler’s parting words to Holmes after she has outwitted him.

Lyndsay Faye takes Holmes and Watson themselves to new territory while faithfully keeping to the setting and style of the originals, in her hugely popular book Dust and Shadow as well as the short story collections, The Whole Art of Detection and Observations by Gaslight . Her handling of the characters and the storylines is one of the most faithful to the originals out there.

As for short story collections, there are many. My personal favourites are Holmes for the Holidays, and More Holmes for the Holidays , edited by Martin H. Greenburg, published in 1996 and 1999, containing stores by such writers as Anne Perry, Edward D Hoch, and Carol Nelson Douglas.

Attached to the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium, at 220 Baker Street, is Mrs. Hudson’s Tea Room run by Jayne Wilson. A book Jayne loves is Memoirs from Mrs. Hudson’s Kitchen by Wendy Heyman-Marshaw . In this book we learn a great deal more about Mrs. Hudson herself, as she reflects on not only her lodgers at 221B Baker Street, but Victorian times in general. The book includes recipes she would have prepared for Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson, or that they might have dined out upon.

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson are more than just fictional characters, they’re faithful representations of their times and attitudes (or those of their creator). Villains, Victims, and Violets: Agency and Feminism in the Original Sherlock Holmes Canon by Resa Haile and Tamara R. Bower is a series of essays providing a feminist analysis of the stories in the Canon from the members of the Studious Scarlets Society. I have an essay in the book which focuses mainly on the situation of the Stoner sisters in “The Speckled Band” my personal favourite of all the stories. The word “Violet” in the title refers to the most commonly appearing female name in the Sherlock Holmes Canon.

Whether in bookstores, at the movie theater, in front of the TV or gathered around the puzzle table, the game is indeed afoot. And may it always be so.

essay on my favourite book sherlock holmes

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Vicki Delany

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The 12 Best Sherlock Holmes Stories, According to Arthur Conan Doyle

After all, he should know.

In June of 1891, “A Scandal in Bohemia,” the first short story featuring everyone’s favorite consulting detective Sherlock Holmes, was published in The Strand Magazine . ( A Study in Scarlet and The Sign of the Four , both novels, had already been printed elsewhere.) Readers loved it, magazine sales soared, and Conan Doyle would go on to publish a total of 4 novels and 56 short stories about Sherlock Homes, with most of the stories published in the Strand between 1891 and 1927.

In March of 1927, just before the final volume of Sherlock Holmes stories, The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes , was due to be published in book form, the Strand introduced a competition for its readers. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle himself would select the very best (that is, his own favorite) Holmes stories, and whichever fan guessed the author’s list “most nearly” would win £100 and an autographed copy of Conan Doyle’s Memories and Adventures . “It is as a little test of the opinion of the public that I inaugurate the small competition announced here,” Conan Doyle wrote in the Strand . “I have drawn up a list of the twelve short stories contained in the four published volumes [that is, excepting The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes , for reasons he explains in full later on] which I consider to be the best, and I should like to know to what extent my choice agrees with that of Strand readers. I have left my list in a sealed envelope with the Editor of the Strand .”

In June of 1927, the Editor (presumably) opened the envelope. The list appeared with Conan Doyle’s explanations:

When this competition was first mooted I went into it in a most light-hearted way, thinking that it would be the easiest thing in the world to pick out the twelve best of the Holmes stories. In practice I found that I had engaged myself in a serious task. In the first place I had to read the stories myself with some care. ‘Steep, steep, weary work,’ as the Scottish landlady remarked.

I began by eliminating altogether the last twelve stories, which are scattered through The Strand for the last five or six years. They are about to come out in volume form under the title The Casebook of Sherlock Holmes , but the public could not easily get at them. Had they been available I should have put two of them in my team—namely, “The Lion’s Mane” and “The Illustrious Client.” The first of these is hampered by being told by Holmes himself, a method which I employed only twice, as it certainly cramps the narrative. On the other hand, the actual plot is among the very best of the whole series, and for that it deserves its place. “The Illustrious Client,” on the other hand, is not remarkable for plot, but it has a certain dramatic quality and moves adequately in lofty circles, so I should also have found a place for it.

However, these being ruled out, I am now faced with some forty odd candidates to be weighed against each other. There are certainly some few an echo of which has come to me from all parts of the world, and I think this is the final proof of merit of some sort. There is the grim snake story, “The Speckled Band.” That, I am sure, will be on every list. Next to that in popular favor and in my own esteem I would place “The Red-Headed League” and “The Dancing Men,” on account in each case of the originality of the plot. Then we could hardly leave out the story which deals with the only foe who ever really extended Holmes, and which deceived the public (and Watson) into the erroneous inference of his death. Also, I think the first story should go in, as it opened the path for the others, and as it has more female interest than is usual. Finally, I think the story which essays the difficult task of explaining away the alleged death of Holmes, and which also introduces such a villain as Colonel Sebastian Moran, should have a place. This puts “The Final Problem,” “A Scandal in Bohemia,” and “The Empty House” upon our list, and we have got our first half-dozen.

But now comes the crux. There are a number of stories which really are a little hard to separate. On the whole I think I should find a place for “The Five Orange Pips,” for though it is short it has a certain dramatic quality of its own. So now only five places are left. There are two stories which deal with high diplomacy and intrigue. They are both among the very best of the series. The one is “The Naval Treaty” and the other “The Second Stain.” There is no room for both of them in the team, and on the whole I regard the latter as the better story. Therefore we will put it down for the eighth place.

And now which? “The Devil’s Foot” has points. It is grim and new. We will give it the ninth place. I think also that “The Priory School” is worth a place if only for the dramatic moment when Holmes points his finger at the Duke. I have only two places left. I hesitate between “Silver Blaze,” “The Bruce-Partington Plans,” “The Crooked Man,” “The Man With the Twisted Lip,” “The ‘Gloria Scott’,” “The Greek Interpreter,” “The Reigate Squires,” “The Musgrave Ritual” and “The Resident Patient.” On what principle am I to choose two out of those? The racing detail in “Silver Blaze” is very faulty, so we must disqualify him. There is little to choose between the others. A small thing would turn the scale. “The Musgrave Ritual” has a historical touch which gives it a little added distinction. It is also a memory from Holmes’s early life. So now we come to the very last. I might as well draw the name out of a bag, for I see no reason to put one before the other. Whatever their merit—and I make no claim for that—they are all as good as I could make them. On the whole Holmes himself shows perhaps most ingenuity in “The Regiate Squires,” and therefore this shall be twelfth man in my team.

It is proverbially a mistake for a judge to give his reasons, but I have analyzed mine if only to show any competitors that I really have taken some trouble in the matter.

The list is therefore as follows:

1. The Speckled Band 2. The Red-Headed League 3. The Dancing Men 4. The Final Problem 5. A Scandal in Bohemia 6. The Empty House 7. The Five Orange Pips 8. The Second Stain 9. The Devil’s Foot 10. The Priory School 11. The Musgrave Ritual 12. The Reigate Squires

As Peter Haining, editor of The Final Adventures of Sherlock Holmes , the collection of Holmes-related artifacts and ephemera from which I have sourced Conan Doyle’s Strand essays, has pointed out, after this essay, Conan Doyle never wrote another word about his most famous creation. He died only a few years later, in 1930.

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Emily Temple

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Friendship In Sherlock Holmes

Essay by: MyelleWhite

Reads: 9635 | Likes: 2 | Shelves: 1 | Comments: 0

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January 2011

Having a good friend is an asset in all areas of life. In Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes , the bond between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson is essential in the solving of their shared cases. Three of their sixty written adventures demonstrate this most: “The Final Problem,” “The Devil’s Foot,” and “The Dying Detective.” Without Watson’s support and loyalty during these cases, they would never have been solved.

In “The Final Problem,” written in 1893, Sherlock Holmes fakes his death to escape Colonel Sebastian Moran, unbeknownst to Watson. Holmes expects Watson’s allegiance and faithfulness to him to compel him to publish a “true” account of his death, therefore causing his pursuers to believe in his false ending. Holmes says, when he returns to Baker Street three years later: “Several times during the last three years I have taken up my pen to write to you, but always I feared lest your affectionate regard for me should tempt you to some indiscretion which would betray my secret.” (Doyle, “The Adventure of the Empty House”). By this time in the canon, Holmes and Watson have become close friends and it is evident that although the news is startling at first, the pair has no trouble falling back into old habits. “It was indeed like old times,” Watson writes, “when, at that hour, I found myself seated beside him in a hansom, my revolver in my pocket, and the thrill of adventure in my heart.” (Doyle, “The Empty House”). Christopher Redmond, author of The Sherlock Holmes Handbook (1st and 2nd editions) writes: “The mutual affection of Holmes and Watson is understated, both as a demonstration of the friendship’s firmness and as a natural consequence of Victorian formality.” (Redmond). There is still much truth in his words. Holmes and Watson never directly tell each other that they appreciate the other; however, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle insures the reader knows they still care by using light words with deeper meanings. An example of this comes from “The Adventure of the Speckled Band” when Watson writes: “I have no keener pleasure than in following Holmes in his professional investigations, and in admiring the rapid deductions, as swift as intuitions, and yet always founded on a logical basis...” and again in the same story, Holmes tells Watson that his presence in the case may be “invaluable.” Holmes admitting this is the strongest evidence we have that the detective has required Watson’s assistance in his cases. As Redmond says, the relationship is truly mutual. He repeats himself again when he writes “...the relationship between Holmes and Watson is one of equals...” What one man lacks, the other man contains. Holmes lacks Watson’s compassion whilst Watson lacks Holmes’ brilliance. Holmes is a messy and unorganized flatmate whilst Watson is tidy and meticulous. Steven Doyle, publisher of The Baker Street Journal and author of numerous reference books on Holmes writes: “But no words in the canon speak to the affection and friendship between Sherlock Holmes and John H. Watson more than the closing words of ‘The final Problem”...he simply calls Sherlock Holmes ‘the best and wisest man whom I have ever known.’” (Doyle, Sherlock Holmes for Dummies ). Though there is no real case in “The Final Problem,” the closeness and loyalty Watson feels towards Holmes still solves the story’s problem in the end. Without Watson, Holmes’ unhappy demise would have never been made public, which is a crucial part of Holmes’ plan to survive, as he tells Watson when he returns back to his flat at Baker Street.

However clever and well thought out they may be, Holmes’ plans do not always work. In “The Adventure of the Devil’s Foot,” written in 1910. Holmes develops a plan to test a poison found on a lamp that is believed to cause sane men to turn mad. Watson and Holmes are both quickly affected by the poison but Watson’s quick thinking saves them both.

“I broke though that cloud of despair and had a glimpse of Holmes’s face, white, rigid, and drawn with horror-the very look which I had seen upon the features of the dead. It was that vision which gave me an instant of sanity and of strength.” (Doyle, “The Adventure of the Devil’s Foot” ).

Watson’s bravery and swift thinking saves them both from the same fate as the previous victims. If Watson had chosen to not take part in the experiment, it would have gone according to plan and Holmes would have been driven insane or even killed by the poison and the case, quite obviously, would not have been solved. The kind doctor often agrees to stay by Holmes’ side despite the danger. In this case, he does just that, fully conscious of the risks. “You will see it out, will you? I thought I knew my Watson.” (Doyle, “The Adventure of the Devil’s Foot”). Holmes says when Watson settles on staying with him. S.C. Roberts says it best when he writes:

“More and more, as time went on, Holmes displayed an affection for Watson which was very different from the casual camaraderie of their earlier association...in “the adventure of the devil’s foot,” was Watson’s prompt courage that saved Holmes...it was in an unsteady voice that Holmes expressed his thanks. Watson had never seen so much of Holmes’s heart before...” ( Roberts).

Watson is the most valuable asset to Holmes when he is in danger. Many times throughout the canon, Watson is found saving Holmes’ life or out laying the risks for his friend to see however, it is very uncommon for Holmes to acknowledge Watson’s bravery with his thanks. There is another instance, earlier in the canon, where Holmes thanks Watson for keeping by his side until the last moment despite the dangers. “’I knew you would not shrink at the last,’ he said, and for a moment I saw something in his eyes which was nearer to tenderness than I had ever seen.” (Doyle, “ The Adventure of the Bruce-Partington Plans”). The moments are few and far between in which Holmes is verbally thankful for Watson’s presence, however, it is evident that he is always thankful.

Holmes trusts his best friend’s abilities to keep him out of harm’s way but in “The Adventure of the Dying Detective,” written in 1913, for the first time, Watson’s skill as a physician and heartfelt concern makes Holmes keep Watson far away from him. When Holmes must pretend to be dying to lure a criminal to his bedside, Watson is used, once again unknowingly, to do so. Fearing that Watson will not provide the necessary performance he must to entice the man in, Holmes must make Watson, too, believe that he is dying. Watson does believe and writes:

“...but it was that gaunt, white face staring at me from the bed which sent a chill to my heart. His eyes had the brightness of fever, there was a hectic flush upon either cheek, and dark crusts clung to his lips; the thin hands upon the coverlet twitched incessantly, his voice was croaking and spasmodic.” (Doyle , “The Adventure of the Dying Detective”).

Watson gives a strong performance and persists until he convinces the man to follow him to Holmes’ bedside. Watson only succeeds because he is so deeply and genuinely concerned for his wellbeing. At the end of the story, when Holmes confesses to Watson that he is fine, Watson asks why Holmes has kept him so far away if he had not been contagious. Holmes answers: “Can you ask, my dear Watson? Do you imagine I have no respect for your medical talents?... At four yards, I could deceive you. If I failed to do so, who would bring my Smith within my grasp?” (Doyle, “The Adventure of the Dying Detective”).The story is so spectacular and unique that Watson “could make his audience feel that he was telling the story from the fireside.” (Roberts).

In Sherlock Holmes, the bond between Holmes and Watson is essential in solving their cases. Calling Sherlock Holmes and John Watson “just good friends” does not do justice to the true brotherly love they have for each other. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle writes the pair in a way that is too strong for friends yet too weak for a romantic love. The ideas of readers in Doyle’s time and in modern time have changed the friendship into many different things, but the fact that Watson is needed by Holmes and vice versa is what remains as the foundation for the characters. The great detective himself says it best: “Good ol’ Watson. You are the one fixed point in a changing age.” (Doyle, “His Last Bow”).

Conan Doyle, Sir Arthur. The Penguin Complete Sherlock Holmes . London: Penguin Books, 2009.

Roberts, Sydney C. Holmes and Watson . New York: Otto Penzler Books, 1953.

Doyle, Steven, and David A. Crowder. Sherlock Holmes For Dummies . Hoboken, NJ: Wiley Publishing, Inc., 2010.

Redmond, Christopher. Sherlock Holmes Handbook, 2nd Edition . Ed. Jason Karp. Toronto: Dundurn Press, 2009.

Riggs, Ransom. The Sherlock Holmes Handbook . San Francisco: Quirk Books, 2009.

The Search For Sherlock Holmes: Documentary . Dir. David Street. With David and Hayman. Minotaur International, 2010.

Submitted: August 16, 2011

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Essay on sherlock holmes.

The Sherlock Holmes books, created by Arthur Conan Doyle, are some of the greatest mystery novels ever written. Edgar Allen Poe may have invented the detective story, but it was Arthur Conan Doyle who perfected it when he created the character of Sherlock Holmes . The typical detective story begins with a protagonist who is faced with a mostly mundane incident or the report of an incident that he begins to investigate. If we were not so accustomed to mystery novels and what makes them tick this might seem like an unimaginative way to begin a story.

What makes a good detective story work is the technique of the story within a story. As the protagonist begins to investigate the original mystery of a book he comes to reveal a second story contained inside the first one that expands the book and causes it to be transformed.

Detective stories usually begin with a standard set of characters who fall into familiar categories, such as the hard-boiled private eye or the detached scientific investigator. As these characters that the reader is already accustomed to begin to encounter the original mystery of a book, however, they circle around something very different than themselves. Like characters traveling down a maze they reveal new patterns that allow the book to be transformed as they go deeper and deeper.

Arthur Conan Doyle was a master at creating plots that fit inside one another in a logical way. What makes a Sherlock Holmes book so compelling is the way that Doyle masterfully puts one story neatly on top of another like the gears of a clock. The machinery of a Sherlock Holmes book moves slowly as a wider world is uncovered. The more of a Sherlock Holmes book that you read the more that it changes its shape. Arthur Conan Doyle created this way of telling a detective story and then showed how it could be mastered.

Sherlock Holmes is a cipher himself. The reader knows from hints here and there that Holmes has much about him that must be complex and unusual underneath. Exactly what this is, however, is left up to the reader to guess. Is Holmes really as detached as he sometimes seems? What motivates him? What does he care about? Why does he do what he does?

The narrator of a Sherlock Holmes story is always his good friend John Watson. Watson clearly worships Holmes and sees him as a genius. The reader is left to guess how reliable Watson is as a narrator, however, and how much they can always trust what he says. The relationship between Holmes and Watson is a question mark. Holmes often criticizes Watson and acts coldly towards him but then at other moments seems to betray his affection.

The questions that the reader has about both Holmes and Watson are a good place to start a book but they are also questions that a reader can easily entertain without being distracted from the plots that follow. The stories and mysteries in a Sherlock Holmes book almost always end up being portraits of a larger Victorian society. The story may begin at 221 Baker Street, but in the course of unraveling a case Holmes and Watson are liable to take the reader to the farthest corners of the British empire.

London at the time of the Sherlock Holmes books was still the center of the largest empire that the world had ever seen. The plots reflect this, with characters haunted by their pasts coming to see Holmes and Watson to tell them about what they saw and did in India and Africa and other far off places of the globe.

The motivation for most of the crime committed in a Sherlock Holmes story is revealed to be the result of a conflict between the desire to maintain Victorian social respectability and attain worldly success. The new opportunities offered by industrialization and capitalism often clashed with the more conservative morality that Victorians clung to as a defense against social turmoil. Sherlock Holmes books usually stood somewhere near the center of this conflict, as Doyle attempted to explore the different social crosscurrents of the time with his stories within his stories.

Sherlock Holmes himself brings together many different contradictory threads of Victorian life. His cold demeanor and use of logic represented for many people at the time both what disturbed them about science and also what fascinated them. Sherlock Holmes is an upholder of Victorian morality, as he seeks to put right what has been done wrong and prevent the guilty from disturbing the social order. Sherlock Holmes also stands outside of the social order by keeping many bohemian habits and having many eccentric ways of living his life.

Arthur Conan Doyle began to write about Sherlock Holmes as a way to supplement his income when he was a young doctor struggling to make ends meet. The first Sherlock Holmes story, A Study in Scarlet , was written for Beeton’s Christmas Annual in 1887. This story was also the first use by Doyle of a story within a story, which helps to explain its immediate popularity.

The story starts with John Watson as a recent veteran of the British war in Afghanistan. Watson moves in with Sherlock Holmes as a way of saving money on rent. It is only after he moves in with Holmes that Watson discovers he is also a detective. In the course of following him as he attempts to discover the perpetrator of a series of strange murders Watson reveals to the reader for the first time the strangeness of the character of Sherlock Holmes.

The story starts in London as Watson follows Holmes as he investigates his leads but by the end of the first part the story has been suddenly transformed. After Holmes and Watson apprehend who they think is the murderer he begins to make a long account of who he is and why he has done what he’s done. Very suddenly the action of the story shifts to America and the frontier of Utah as the rest of the book is taken up with his account.

This sudden change of scene is what makes the rest of the story work. Conan Doyle had discovered a new way of telling a story that he would use many times again. The popularity of the Sherlock Holmes stories made Arthur Conan Doyle a very wealthy man and gave him the time to pursue his many other interests and become a notable figure of his time. Despite this, Doyle often became tired of writing about Sherlock Holmes.

The fact that he had originally created him as a way of making money perhaps made Doyle think less of Sherlock Holmes than he should have. Whenever Doyle found that he was running low on funds he would write another series of Sherlock Holmes stories that were immediately gobbled up by a hungry public. Arthur Conan Doyle famously tried to kill Sherlock Holmes by having him die together with his nemesis professor Moriarty in the story the Final Problem . Fortunately, he found that he was unable to make this stick, as the public demand for more stories was just too high for him to turn it away for long.

In addition to his Sherlock Holmes stories Arthur Conan Doyle wrote many works of fiction and non-fiction and several theatrical works. All of these were well received and he was considered an important social critic and campaigner for various political causes. Nothing, however, could overshadow the work that he did writing his Sherlock Holmes stories. In the end, it is also through these stories that he has been best remembered.

By creating Sherlock Holmes Arthur Conan Doyle created a permanent place for himself in the world’s literature. He also created a new way of telling a story that has been the basis of countless works by other authors since. Its rare that any author has made a similar impact in any form of literature. By reading any of the Sherlock Holmes stories you will not only be enjoying a series of tales told well but also exploring a part of the foundation of modern literature.

Steven Moffat on ‘Sherlock’s Return, the Holmes-Watson Love Story, and Updating the First Supervillain (thinkprogress.org)

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10 of the Best Sherlock Holmes Stories Everyone Should Read

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle wrote 60 Sherlock Holmes cases in all: 56 short stories and four full-length novels. But where is the best place for the reader who is new to Sherlock Holmes to begin exploring these classic works of detective fiction? We offer our selection of the ten best Sherlock Holmes cases below.

1. The Hound of the Baskervilles .

Mr. Holmes, they were the footprints of a gigantic hound!

Of the four novel-length adventures Conan Doyle penned about Sherlock Holmes, this is the most satisfying (and the best-known), and the one novel that we’ve included on this list of Sherlock Holmes’s best cases.

Inspired by a story Doyle heard from his friend, the sportsman and journalist Bertram Fletcher Robinson, about the legends surrounding a seventeenth-century squire, The Hound of the Baskervilles is one of the best-known Sherlock Holmes cases, featuring supposedly demonic hounds on atmospheric Dartmoor.

In 2012, a portion of Doyle’s original manuscript sold at auction for $158,500.

2. ‘ A Scandal in Bohemia ’.

To Sherlock Holmes she is always the woman. I have seldom heard him mention her under any other name. In his eyes she eclipses and predominates the whole of her sex. It was not that he felt any emotion akin to love for Irene Adler. All emotions, and that one particularly, were abhorrent to his cold, precise but admirably balanced mind …

This is the short story that launched Sherlock Holmes’s successful ‘career’ in the pages of The Strand in 1891. Until this story, he was the star of two short novels, A Study in Scarlet (1887) and The Sign of the Four (1890), and known to a small group of readers. After the short stories began to appear in The Strand , he became one of the most famous fictional characters in the history of literature.

This debut short-story outing for the sleuth sees him trying to recover an incriminating photograph owed by one Irene Adler, who once had a ‘friendship’ (of sorts … if you catch our drift) with the King of Bohemia. The story owes an obvious debt to Poe’s ‘The Purloined Letter’ , but Holmes transforms the raw ingredients that he borrows from Poe into something magical.

3. ‘ The Red-Headed League ’.

Sherlock Holmes’s quick eye took in my occupation, and he shook his head with a smile as he noticed my questioning glances. “Beyond the obvious facts that he has at some time done manual labor, that he takes snuff, that he is a Freemason, that he has been in China, and that he has done a considerable amount of writing lately, I can deduce nothing else.”

A red-headed man, Jabez Wilson, lands an unusual job: he has been hired to copy out the Encyclopedia Britannica in a room for a number of hours a day, but one of the oddest things about the job is that it had to be done by someone with red hair .

Sherlock Holmes has his interest piqued by this unusual early case, and agrees to investigate …

4. ‘ The Speckled Band ’.

“He seems a very amiable person,” said Holmes, laughing. “I am not quite so bulky, but if he had remained I might have shown him that my grip was not much more feeble than his own.” As he spoke he picked up the steel poker and, with a sudden effort, straightened it out again.

Conan Doyle included this classic tale among his list of his favourite Sherlock Holmes stories, and observed that it would probably make it only most diehard Holmes fans’ lists of the best Sherlock Holmes adventures.

The story is a classic ‘locked room’ mystery in which a woman fears for her life. The case will require Holmes not only to save his client’s life but to solve the mystery of how her sister died two years ago.

Like many of the Sherlock Holmes stories, the British empire lurks in the background (Dr Roylott had met the girls’ mother out in India, and has a menagerie of exotic animals from that country), and in this connection, the story also reveals a debt to one of the first detective novels, Wilkie Collins’s The Moonstone .

5. ‘ Silver Blaze ’.

“Is there any point to which you would wish to draw my attention?”

“To the curious incident of the dog in the night-time.”

“The dog did nothing in the night-time.”

“That was the curious incident,” remarked Sherlock Holmes.

Perhaps best-known for Holmes’s famous line about ‘the curious incident of the dog in the night-time’ (used by Mark Haddon as the title for his bestselling novel), ‘Silver Blaze’ is the first story in the second collection of classic Sherlock Holmes stories, The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes (1893). The story concerns a missing racehorse and sees Holmes donning his famous deerstalker to investigate.

6. ‘ The Greek Interpreter ’.

This was news to me indeed. If there were another man with such singular powers in England, how was it that neither police nor public had heard of him? I put the question, with a hint that it was my companion’s modesty which made him acknowledge his brother as his superior. Holmes laughed at my suggestion.

It’s in this story that we meet Sherlock Holmes’s brother Mycroft, so that’s partly why we’ve included it here – Doyle himself placed it number 17 th on his list of the greatest Sherlock Holmes cases.

The mystery itself revolves around a Greek interpreter named Mr Melas, who is engaged in a rather cloak-and-dagger way to translate for someone who is being held captive by some sinister criminals.

7. ‘ The Dancing Men ’.

Its code-themed story probably inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s ‘The Gold-Bug’, ‘The Dancing Men’ is one of Holmes’s greatest code-breaking triumphs. Doyle himself considered it the third best Sherlock Holmes story of the lot.

Mr. Hilton Cubitt of Ridling Thorpe Manor in Norfolk, and husband to a nervous wife, tells Holmes a series of stick figures have started to appear chalked up on the window-sill of the house. What do they mean, and who is responsible for them?

8. ‘ The Gloria Scott ’.

This story makes it into this list of the best Sherlock Holmes stories partly because it sees the great sleuth recounting his very first case, while still a student at university.

Holmes goes to stay with a university friend during the holidays, and becomes involved in a mystery surrounding the murky past of his friend’s father. Rather pleasingly, the story also appears to be the origin of the term ‘smoking gun’ to refer to an incontrovertibly incriminating piece of evidence.

9. ‘ The Reigate Squires ’.

This story made it into Conan Doyle’s own list of his favourite Sherlock Holmes stories because he thought it was the story in which, ‘on the whole, Holmes himself shows perhaps the most ingenuity’.

While recovering from a taxing case in France, Holmes travels to Surrey where he ends up investigating a series of mysterious burglaries involving a note written by two different people…

10. ‘ The Final Problem ’.

He is the Napoleon of crime, Watson. He is the organizer of half that is evil and of nearly all that is undetected in this great city. He is a genius, a philosopher, an abstract thinker. He has a brain of the first order. He sits motionless, like a spider in the center of its web, but that web has a thousand radiations, and he knows well every quiver of each of them.

This is one of the best-known Sherlock Holmes cases, because it’s the one when the great sleuth was killed off – only to return a decade later. It’s also noteworthy for being the one Sherlock Holmes story penned by Doyle to feature the evil criminal mastermind, Dr James Moriarty, ‘the Napoleon of crime’.

Doyle was not actually the first writer to kill off Sherlock Holmes – his friend J. M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan , had pre-empted him when he wrote a Holmes parody – and owing to popular demand, Holmes’s ‘final problem’ would not, in fact, prove to be so final after all.

Continue to explore classic fiction with our pick of the best detective novels , these classic ghost stories , this selection of the best Poe stories , and our review of Max Carrados, the blind detective .

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17 thoughts on “10 of the Best Sherlock Holmes Stories Everyone Should Read”

Wonderful post! I also love “Bruce Partington Plans”, “Three Students”, “Three Garridebs,” and “Dying Detective”. It’s so difficult to pick a favorite, really ;) they’re all so good!!!

Oh they’re great additions to the list! There really are so many classics – ‘Bruce Partington Plans’ is great for featuring the London Underground :)

Yes yes yes! “The silver blaze” is my absolute favorite Sherlock story. Took a class in college where we read just about all the stories and this list just made me a bit nostalgic. Great post :)

Thank you! Glad you liked the list. And I agree: everything about ‘Silver Blaze’ is perfect! Doyle had got a real feel for the character by then, but was still brimming with superb plot ideas.

Sherlock Holmes is every smart girls’ crush! LOL 🔫🔪🔬🔍🎩

Reblogged this on Sharon E. Cathcart and commented: I’ve read the entire Holmes canon (and a few of the non-canon tales as well). “Silver Blaze” is my absolute favorite, and every one of the tales listed here is brilliant.

I think I’ve read all 60 (56 + 4) a couple of times. Wonderful stuff. Delighted to see ‘The Red-Headed League’ and ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles’ on your list. Maybe I have strange taste, but I have a special liking for ‘The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle’, ‘The Adventure of the Engineer’s Thumb’ and ‘The Adventure of the Norwood Builder’.

They’re all classics too – I have a soft spot for ‘The Engineer’s Thumb’ in particular. The first three volumes of short stories don’t really contain anything that isn’t terrific!

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Reblogged this on MorgEn Bailey – Creative Writing Guru and commented: Another great instalment in this series…

Irene Adler “the woman”–has become many things in many spinoffs, hasn’t she. What is the story where the step-father locks away his daughter and there is a blue dress involved? Now that should make some kind of list. Secrets, an heiress, snarling dogs, corrupt morals–the best elements of a Sherlockian. Out of curiosity, any comments on the Mary Russell series? Just finished a review on my encounter with King’s patische.

Reblogged this on The Gettysburg Writers Brigade and commented: I love the series “Sherlock,” but as writers and readers, I thought that you all would appreciate some good recommendations.

Do you know which one features the gretna munitions factory in it?

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this has realy helped me with my homework

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Sherlock Holmes Essays

The well-known Sherlock Holmes was a detective character in a series of stories written by Arthur Conan Doyle. All the stories go into great detail about life during the Nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The specific stories I have been studying are titled ‘The Speckled Band’, ‘The Man with the Twisted Lip’, and ‘The Copper Beeches’.

All of these stories have common themes and ideas which I will be discussing in my essay. One theme which is explored in all three stories is the idea of class. Sherlock Holmes often takes on cases which involve members of the upper class, such as in ‘The Speckled Band’, where an upper class woman approaches him for help.

The stories also often feature crime, and the various motivations for why people commit crimes. In ‘The Man with the Twisted Lip’, the criminal is driven by poverty, whereas in ‘The Speckled Band’, the criminal is driven by greed.

All three stories also feature detectives, both professional and amateur. Sherlock Holmes is the professional detective in all three stories, and uses his skills of deduction to solve the cases. In ‘The Man with the Twisted Lip’, Neville St Clair is the amateur detective, who uses his knowledge of human nature to help solve the case.

In all of the Sherlock Holmes stories, Sherlock and Watson have play different roles. Usually, Sherlock is more intelligent and able to put together clues faster than we mere mortals can; he’s also quite mysterious and you never know what he’s going to do next. However, even though Watson is less intuitive than Sherlock, his role in the story is still important because he represents us normal folk who wouldn’t be able to connect all the dots like our great detective friend.

Another big difference between Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson is that Doctor Watson is always getting himself into trouble and Sherlock Holmes always has to save him.

For example in “The Adventure of the Speckled Band”, Doctor Watson nearly gets himself killed a few times if it wasn’t for Sherlock Holmes he would have been dead.

This story is also a good example of how Sherlock Holmes is more intelligent than Doctor Watson he works out what is going on a lot quicker than Doctor Watson does.

Even though Doctor Watson doesn’t always understand what is going on he still helps Sherlock Holmes solve the mystery.

I think that Arthur Conan Doyle wanted to make Doctor Watson more like us so we could understand the stories better.

Another difference between these two characters is that Sherlock Holmes never really shows his feelings but Doctor Watson does, for example in “The Adventure of the Noble Bachelor” when Miss Hatty Doran got married and ran off with another man, Doctor Watson showed his feelings by saying “I never saw a woman so completely carried away by love” but Sherlock Holmes didn’t really say anything he just kept on talking about the case.

I think that Arthur Conan Doyle wanted us to see that even though Sherlock Holmes is more intelligent than Doctor Watson, Doctor Watson is still a very important character in the Sherlock Holmes stories.

Arthur Conan Doyle is splendid at characterization, as he painted personalities of his characters with words in great detail. For instance, “Carriage driver: ‘he is a man of immense strength and absolute uncontrolled anger…” This quote was taken from ‘The Speckled Band’ describing Dr. Roylott. I think the author gave us a general sense of what kind personification the character has without delving too much into it so we can have a better understanding before going more in-depth about them later on.

Sherlock Holmes is the main character in the book and he is a very interesting character, he is what you would call a ‘high functioning sociopath’. He doesn’t seem to feel emotions like other people do and this makes him very good at his job, which is solving crimes. He is also extremely intelligent and can deduce things that other people wouldn’t be able to.

One of the things that I really like about Sherlock Holmes is that even though he isn’t a very emotional person, he does have a sense of justice and he will always try to help people who are in need.

For example, each story starts with an introduction that gets to the core of the plot. This is followed by development, where the story progresses and Sherlock narrows down his list of suspects. Finally, there is the denouement in which the crime is solved and everyone gets their just desserts. I think that how a story is structured can make or break it because some people might like knowing how it will end while others may not want to know that crimes always get solved in these stories.

The stories of Sherlock Holmes are all very similar in structure. They all start with an introduction, followed by the development of the story, and then the denouement where the crime is solved. This makes them very predictable, but some people may enjoy knowing that the crime will always be solved in the end.

What really makes or breaks these stories is the characters. Sherlock Holmes is a brilliant detective, and his sidekick Watson is always there to help him solve the case. The two of them have a great rapport, and their adventures are always interesting to read about.

If you’re looking for a good mystery story, then you can’t go wrong with Sherlock Holmes. With intriguing characters and exciting plots, these stories are sure to keep you entertained.

Descriptive writing allows the reader to see what the place, people, or object is like. For example, in “The Speckled Band,” one quote describing the house they are approaching says it was of gray stone with curling wings looking like claws of a crab. This particular description is great because not only can readers visualize what the house looks like, but also feel trapped–giving them a sense of how aggressive it may be.

Another example of description from the same story is “the window was closed and barred by heavy wooden shutters,” This again is another way of showing that the house looks aggressive because it has bars on the windows.

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My Favourite Book Essay for Class 10 – 10 Lines, 100 & 500 Words

Entrance Exams
November 8, 2023

My Favourite Book Essay for Class 10 – The world of literature is a vast landscape with diverse genres, catering to the varied tastes of book enthusiasts. It acknowledges the sheer volume of books available in the market. The beauty of reading lies in the freedom to choose books that align with our interests, fostering both knowledge expansion and the sheer pleasure of reading.

This article serves as a gateway to a collection of sample essays on my favorite book in English – 10 lines, 100, 150, 500, 1000 Words.

My Favourite Book Essay in 500 Words

Reading a book is the finest way to learn something. Most of his novels have been read by me. My favorite book is “Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle

This essay delves into the brilliant mind of Sherlock Holmes, his unwavering partner Dr. John Watson, and the intricate mysteries they solve. The essay also highlights the moral dilemmas and human complexities addressed in the narratives, making them more than just detective tales.

Title: The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes: A Timeless Journey into Deduction and Mystery

Introduction: “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes,” written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, stands as a cornerstone in the realm of detective fiction. This classic collection of twelve stories, first published in 1892, continues to captivate readers with its brilliant storytelling, intricate mysteries, and the indomitable detective genius, Sherlock Holmes.

I. The Genius of Sherlock Holmes: In this section, we delve into the enigmatic character of Sherlock Holmes. Holmes’s unmatched deductive skills and keen observations set him apart as a literary icon. His ability to unravel the most perplexing mysteries has fascinated readers for generations.

II. The Unforgettable Cases: Within this segment, we explore some of the most iconic cases presented in the stories. From “A Scandal in Bohemia,” where Holmes faces off against the brilliant Irene Adler, to “The Adventure of the Speckled Band,” a tale of chilling suspense, each story is a masterstroke of mystery and intrigue.

III. The Dynamic Duo: Holmes and Watson: This section sheds light on the dynamic relationship between Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend and narrator, Dr. John Watson. Watson’s steadfast companionship and astute observations complement Holmes’s genius, creating a partnership that resonates with readers on a profound level.

IV. Timeless Themes and Relevant Lessons: Examining the enduring themes in the adventures, this section discusses how issues such as human nature, justice, and morality are explored. The stories often provide readers with moral quandaries, making them not just detective tales but profound reflections on the complexities of life.

V. The Art of Deduction and Observation: Here, we delve into the methodology of Sherlock Holmes. His meticulous observations, deductive reasoning, and logical approach to solving mysteries have not only entertained but also inspired generations of readers. The art of deduction becomes a focal point, showcasing Holmes’s brilliance as a detective.

VI. Impact on Popular Culture: This section explores how Sherlock Holmes has permeated various forms of media, from films and television series to video games and adaptations. The enduring appeal of Holmes has led to numerous reinterpretations, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.

Conclusion: “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” is not merely a collection of detective stories; it is an enduring testament to the power of storytelling and the brilliance of Arthur Conan Doyle’s literary craftsmanship. Through the captivating tales of deduction, the complex characters of Holmes and Watson, and the exploration of timeless themes, readers are invited on a journey that transcends the boundaries of time and genre. As long as there are readers seeking the thrill of mystery and the joy of intellectual engagement, Sherlock Holmes will continue to reign supreme, immortalized in the pages of this timeless masterpiece.

Also See – Service To Man Is Service To God Essay – 100 & 500 Words, 10 Lines

Writing an Essay on My Favourite Book – Harry Potter Series

“My favorite book series is Harry Potter. Written by J.K. Rowling , it follows the magical adventures of a young wizard named Harry Potter and his friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

I love the series because of its captivating storyline, magical world-building, and well-developed characters. The books are filled with spells, magical creatures, and exciting mysteries. Each book takes readers on a thrilling journey, teaching valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and the battle between good and evil.

Title: Magical Journeys: Exploring the Harry Potter Series

Introduction: The enchanting world of Hogwarts, the brave young wizard Harry Potter, his loyal friends, and their adventures have captured the hearts of millions worldwide. J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series is not just a collection of books; it’s an immersive experience that has left an indelible mark on readers of all ages. In this essay, we embark on a magical journey through the pages of this beloved series, exploring its themes, characters, and lasting impact on literature and readers.

I. The Wizarding World Unveiled: Delving into the intricacies of the magical universe created by J.K. Rowling, this section explores the magical creatures, spells, and enchanting places that make the Harry Potter series come alive. From Diagon Alley to the Forbidden Forest, each location is a testament to Rowling’s creativity and attention to detail.

II. The Hero’s Journey: In this section, we delve into the character of Harry Potter himself. From his humble beginnings at the Dursleys’ to his transformation into a brave and skilled wizard, Harry’s journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and resilience. We explore his triumphs, challenges, and the lessons he learns along the way.

III. The Power of Friendship: Harry Potter’s journey is intertwined with the unwavering support of his friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. This section discusses the significance of friendship in the series, highlighting the loyalty, camaraderie, and sacrifices made by these young heroes. Their bond becomes a beacon of hope and strength in the face of adversity.

IV. The Battle Between Good and Evil: At the heart of the Harry Potter series lies the timeless theme of the battle between good and evil. From the dark forces led by Lord Voldemort to the bravery of the Order of the Phoenix, this section explores the moral complexities, sacrifices, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It reflects on the series’ deeper messages about love, choices, and the consequences of one’s actions.

V. Lessons in Acceptance and Diversity: J.K. Rowling weaves themes of acceptance, tolerance, and diversity throughout the series. This section examines the portrayal of various magical creatures, pure-blood supremacy, and the fight against prejudice. The series teaches readers the importance of embracing differences and standing up against discrimination.

VI. Lessons in Morality and Choices: The Harry Potter series delves into the complexities of morality and the consequences of one’s choices. We examine the shades of gray in characters like Draco Malfoy and the weight of choices that characters like Sirius Black face. The series offers a profound exploration of right and wrong, love and sacrifice.

VII. The Magic of Learning: Education and growth are pivotal aspects of the Harry Potter series. We delve into the transformative journey of Harry and his friends as they navigate their way through the challenges of Hogwarts. The lessons they learn, both inside and outside the classroom, reflect universal experiences of growth and self-discovery.

VIII. Harry Potter’s Enduring Legacy: Beyond the pages, the Harry Potter series has left an enduring legacy. From movies and theme parks to fan communities and academic discussions, this section explores the widespread impact of the series on popular culture and literature. It discusses the emergence of a new generation of readers and the timeless appeal that continues to draw people into the magical world.

Conclusion: The Harry Potter series is more than just a collection of books; it’s a phenomenon that has inspired, entertained, and educated readers across the globe. As we conclude this exploration, it becomes evident that the series’ magic lies not only in its fantastical elements but also in its ability to convey profound life lessons, foster empathy, and ignite the imagination. Through the lens of Harry Potter’s adventures, readers have discovered the power of friendship, the importance of bravery, and the enduring impact of storytelling. Harry Potter is not just a character; he is an icon, a symbol of the enduring magic that literature brings into our lives.

About My Favourite Book in 10 Lines

“My favorite book is ‘The Hunger Games’ by Suzanne Collins. It’s a gripping dystopian novel that follows the story of Katniss Everdeen, a brave and resourceful young woman who volunteers to participate in a deadly televised event to save her sister.

Suzanne Collins’ writing keeps readers engaged, and the book’s enduring appeal lies in its strong characters and thought-provoking social commentary. It’s a must-read for those who enjoy thrilling adventures with a powerful message.”

My Favourite Book – “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins

The story follows Katniss Everdeen, a strong-willed teenager, who volunteers to participate in a deadly televised event known as the Hunger Games to save her sister.
In a cruel society, the Capitol forces children from twelve districts to fight to the death for the amusement of the elite.
The book explores themes of oppression, rebellion, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Katniss is a remarkable protagonist who challenges the status quo and becomes a symbol of hope for the oppressed.
The story is filled with intense action, moral dilemmas, and complex relationships.
Suzanne Collins’ writing keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout the series.
“The Hunger Games” is not only a thrilling adventure but also a thought-provoking commentary on the consequences of power and control.
It has been adapted into a successful film series, further popularizing the story.
The book’s enduring appeal lies in its strong characters, social commentary, and a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
“The Hunger Games” is a must-read for those who enjoy dystopian fiction with a strong, resourceful heroine.

Short Essay on Favourite Book – “Animal Farm” by George Orwell

“My favorite book is ‘Animal Farm’ by George Orwell. It’s a powerful novella that serves as an allegory for the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism. The story revolves around a farm where the animals rebel against their human owner, aiming for a fair and equal society. However, it becomes a cautionary tale about the corrupting nature of power and the dangers of totalitarianism.

“Animal Farm” by George Orwell is a powerful and thought-provoking novella that serves as a scathing allegory of the Russian Revolution and the subsequent rise of Stalinism. The story unfolds on a farm where the animals, led by a group of pigs, overthrow their oppressive human owner in the pursuit of a utopian society.

However, as time goes on, the pigs’ leadership becomes corrupt, and they betray the original principles of equality and justice. The famous slogan “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others” highlights this shift in power.

The book is a commentary on the corrupting nature of power and how revolutions can often lead to new forms of oppression. Orwell uses animal characters to represent various figures from the Russian Revolution and their subsequent actions.

“Animal Farm” is a cautionary tale about the dangers of totalitarianism, propaganda, and the erosion of ideals. It remains a relevant and thought-provoking read, reminding us of the importance of vigilance and the preservation of democratic values in the face of authoritarianism.

Short Essay on Favourite Book – “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank in 100 Words

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“The Room on the Roof” by Ruskin Bond is a timeless coming-of-age novel that follows the adventures of Rusty, a sixteen-year-old English boy living in Dehradun, India. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the picturesque Himalayan town, providing a vivid and captivating setting.

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The Hound of the Baskervilles

Sir arthur conan doyle.

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Character Analysis

Sherlock Holmes Quotes in The Hound of the Baskervilles

Mr. Sherlock Holmes, who was usually very late in the mornings, save upon those not infrequent occasions when he stayed up all night, was seated at the breakfast-table. I stood upon the hearthrug and picked up the stick which our visitor had left behind him the night before.

Really, Watson, you excel yourself […] It may be that you are not yourself luminous, but you are a conductor of light. Some people without possessing genius have a remarkable power of stimulating. I confess, my dear fellow, that I am very much in your debt.

Such is the tale, my sons, of the coming of the hound which is said to have plagued the family so sorely ever since. If I have set it down it is because that which is clearly known hath less terror than that which is but hinted at and guessed.

Mr. Holmes, they were the footprints of a gigantic hound!

I find that before the terrible event occurred several people had seen a creature upon the moor which corresponds with this Baskerville demon, and which could not possibly be an animal known to science. They all agreed that it was a huge creature, luminous, ghastly, and spectral.

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My first impression as I opened the door was that a fire had broken out, for the room was so filled with smoke that the light of the lamp upon the table was blurred by it.

Really, Mr. Holmes, this exceeds anything which I could have imagined […] I could understand anyone saying that the words were from a newspaper; but that you should name which, and add that it came from the leading article, is really one of the most remarkable things which I have ever known.

We are dealing with a clever man, Watson.

It might interest you to know that you have been driving Mr. Sherlock Holmes.

I remembered the case well, for it was one in which Holmes had taken an interest on account of the peculiar ferocity of the crime and the wanton brutality which had marked all the actions of the assassin.

It is a lovely evening, my dear Watson […] I really think that you will be more comfortable outside than in.

The gleam of the match which he struck shone upon his clotted fingers and upon the ghastly pool which widened slowly from the crushed skull of the victim. And it shone upon something else which turned our hearts sick and faint within us—the body of Sir Henry Baskerville!

One cannot always have the success for which one hopes. An investigator needs facts, and not legends or rumors. It has not been a satisfactory case.

That’s lucky for him—in fact, it’s lucky for all of you, since you are all on the wrong side of the law in this matter. I am not sure that as a conscientious detective my first duty is not to arrest the whole household.

Yes, it is an interesting instance of a throwback, which appears to be both physical and spiritual. A study of family portraits is enough to convert a man to the doctrine of reincarnation. The fellow is a Baskerville—that is evident.

The great ordeal was in front of us; at last we were about to make our final effort, and yet Holmes had said nothing, and I could only surmise what his course of action would be.

I said it in London, Watson, and I say it again now, that never have we helped to hunt down a more dangerous man than he who is lying yonder.

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Was Sherlock Holmes a real person?

Does sherlock holmes die, who is sherlock holmes’s nemesis, who does sherlock holmes marry.

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Sherlock Holmes

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Bridgewater State University - Virtual Commons - A Study in Sherlock: Revisiting the Relationship between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John WatsonHolmes and Dr. John Watson
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Sherlock Holmes - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up)

Sherlock Holmes is a fictional character created by the Scottish writer Arthur Conan Doyle . However, Conan Doyle did model Holmes’s methods and mannerisms on those of Dr. Joseph Bell, who had been his professor at the University of Edinburgh Medical School. Conan Doyle took inspiration from Bell’s method of diagnosing a patient’s disease.

How is Sherlock Holmes so smart?

Sherlock Holmes’s success as a “consulting detective” comes from his uncanny ability to gather evidence based upon his honed skills of observation and deductive reasoning . Holmes offered some insight into his method, claiming, “When you have excluded the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.”

Claiming that Sherlock Holmes distracted him “from better things,” Arthur Conan Doyle in 1893 famously attempted to kill him off in the story “The Final Problem.” Public outcry against the death of Holmes was great. By popular demand, Conan Doyle resurrected his detective in the story “The Adventure of the Empty House” (1903).

Sherlock Holmes’s greatest nemesis is Professor James Moriarty whom Holmes considers the “Napoleon of Crime.” The character of Professor Moriarty recurs in several detective stories and novels by Arthur Conan Doyle . Similar to Sherlock Holmes’s character having real-life inspiration, it is believed that Conan Doyle based Moriarty on Adam Worth, a real criminal who was active at the time.

Sherlock Holmes never marries anyone in Arthur Conan Doyle ’s original stories. The only woman whom Holmes ever holds in high regard is Irene Adler—one of few characters to be clever enough to get past him. Though only appearing in Conan Doyle’s “A Scandal in Bohemia” (1891), she has often been portrayed as a potential love interest of Holmes in contemporary adaptations.

Sherlock Holmes , fictional character created by the Scottish writer Arthur Conan Doyle . The prototype for the modern mastermind detective , Holmes first appeared in Conan Doyle’s A Study in Scarlet , published in Beeton’s Christmas Annual of 1887. The first collection of the Holmes’ tales, published as The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes , appeared in 1892. As the world’s first and only “consulting detective,” he pursued criminals throughout Victorian and Edwardian London, the south of England, and continental Europe. Although the fictional detective had been anticipated by Edgar Allan Poe ’s C. Auguste Dupin and Émile Gaboriau ’s Monsieur Lecoq, Holmes made a singular impact upon the popular imagination and has been the most enduring character of the detective story .

Conan Doyle modeled Holmes’s methods and mannerisms on those of Dr. Joseph Bell, who had been his professor at the University of Edinburgh Medical School. In particular, Holmes’s uncanny ability to gather evidence based upon his honed skills of observation and deductive reasoning paralleled Bell’s method of diagnosing a patient’s disease. Holmes offered some insight into his method, claiming that “When you have excluded the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.” His detecting abilities become clear, though no less amazing, when explained by his companion, Dr. John H. Watson , who recounts the criminal cases they jointly pursue. Although Holmes rebuffs praise, declaring his abilities to be “elementary,” the oft-quoted phrase “Elementary, my dear Watson,” never actually appears in Conan Doyle’s writings. ( See also Sherlock Holmes: Pioneer in Forensic Science .)

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Watson’s narrations describe Holmes as a very complex and moody character who, although of strict habit, is considerably untidy. His London abode at 221B, Baker Street, is tended by his housekeeper, Mrs. Hudson. Holmes appears to undergo bouts of mania and depression, the latter of which are accompanied by pipe smoking, violin playing, and cocaine use. Throughout the four novels and 56 short stories featuring Holmes, a number of characters recur, including the bumbling Scotland Yard inspector Lestrade ; the group of “street Arabs” known as the Baker Street Irregulars, who are routinely employed by Holmes as informers; his even wiser but less ambitious brother, Mycroft; and, most notably, his formidable opponent, Professor James Moriarty , whom Holmes considers the “Napoleon of crime.”

Claiming that Holmes distracted him “from better things,” Conan Doyle famously in 1893 (“ The Final Problem”) attempted to kill him off; during a violent struggle on Switzerland’s Reichenbach Falls , both Holmes and his nemesis , Professor Moriarty, are plunged over the edge of the precipice . Popular outcry against the demise of Holmes was great; men wore black mourning bands, the British royal family was distraught , and more than 20,000 readers cancelled their subscriptions to the popular Strand Magazine , in which Holmes regularly appeared. By popular demand, Conan Doyle resurrected his detective in the story “The Adventure of the Empty House” (1903).

Holmes remained a popular figure into the 21st century. Among the most popular stories in which he is featured are “The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle” (1892), “The Adventure of the Speckled Band” (1892), “The Adventure of the Six Napoleons” (1904), and the novel The Hound of the Baskervilles (1902). Holmes’s character has been translated to other media as well, and he is widely known on both stage and screen. The earliest actor to have essayed the role is William Gillette (a founding member of the New York Holmes society still known as the Baker Street Irregulars), who gave several popular theatrical portrayals at the turn of the 20th century. Those who appeared as Holmes onscreen include Basil Rathbone , Peter Cushing, Jeremy Brett, Robert Downey, Jr. , Benedict Cumberbatch , and Jonny Lee Miller. Ironically, two of the emblems of Holmes, his meerschaum pipe and deerstalker hat, are not original to Conan Doyle’s writings. Gillette introduced the curved meerschaum pipe (it is thought to have been easier on the actor’s jaw during a long performance), and Sidney Paget the deerstalker (or “fore-and-aft”) cap—it was de rigueur for country living—in more than one illustration for The Strand of Holmes at work on his investigations in the country.

In addition to myriad translations of the Holmes adventures throughout the world, a genre of parodies and pastiches has developed based upon the Sherlock Holmes character. The mystery drama television series House (2004–12), starring Hugh Laurie , Omar Epps, and Robert Sean Leonard, was a medical take on Holmes and Watson. Holmes was even played by a dog in the 1990s children’s television show Wishbone (1995–98).

An entire collection of more scholarly “higher criticism” of Conan Doyle’s writings was initiated by Ronald Knox ’s “Studies in the Literature of Sherlock Holmes” (1912). Subsequent higher criticism is epitomized by the work appearing in The Baker Street Journal (begun 1946), published by the Baker Street Irregulars. Holmes devotees, known as Sherlockians or Holmesians, frequently gather in societies around the world to pay tribute to the master detective with a cultist fervor. The most established of these societies are the invitation-only Baker Street Irregulars , founded in 1934, and the Sherlock Holmes Society of London , founded in 1951 and open to anyone. The latter, which publishes The Sherlock Holmes Journal , traces its origins to the Sherlock Holmes Society that was formed in London in 1934 and counted among its members the scholar and writer Dorothy L. Sayers ; it had ceased its activities by the 1940s.

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Arthur Conan Doyle Names His 19 Favorite Sherlock Holmes Stories

in Literature | October 9th, 2015 Leave a Comment

The_Strand_Magazine_(cover),_vol._73,_April_1927

Sherlock Holmes has become such a cultural fixture since he first appeared in print that all of us have surely, at one time or another, considered reading through the London detective’s complete case files. But where to start? One can always begin at the beginning with that first print appearance, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1887 novel A Study in Scarlet . But how best to progress through the Sherlock Holmes canon, a body of 56 short stories and four novels (and that number counting only the material written by Conan Doyle himself), some more essential than others?

You might consider reading the adventures of Sherlock Holmes according to the preferences of Sherlock Holmes’ creator. We know these preferences because of a 1927 competition in The Strand Magazine , where the character’s popularity first blew up, which asked readers to name the twelve best Sherlock Holmes stories. They asked Conan Doyle the same question, and the list he came up with runs as follows:

“The Adventure of the Speckled Band” (“a grim story” that “I am sure will be on every list”)
“The Redheaded League”
“The Adventure of the Dancing Men” (due, as with “The Redheaded League,” to “the originality of the plot”)
“The Final Problem” (“we could hardly leave out the story which deals with the only foe who ever really extended Holmes, and which deceived the public (and Watson) into the erroneous inference of his death”)
“A Scandal in Bohemia” (since, as the first short story in the series, “it opened the path for the others,” and “it has more female interest than is usual”)
“The Adventure of the Empty House” (“the story which esssays the difficult task of explaining away the alleged death of Holmes”)
“The Five Orange Pips” (“though it is short it has a certain dramatic quality of its own”)
“The Adventure of the Second Stain” (for its treatment of “high diplomacy and intrigue”)
“ The Adventure of the Devil’s Foot” (“grim and new”)
“The Adventure of the Priory School” (“worth a place if only for the dramatic moment when Holmes points his finger at the Duke”)
“The Musgrave Ritual” (for its inclusion of “a historical touch which gives it a little added distinction” and “a memory from Holmes’ early life”)
“The Reigate Squires” (in which “on the whole, Holmes himself shows perhaps the most ingenuity”)

He later added seven more favorites, including some he’d written after The Strand ’s contest took place:

“Silver Blaze”
“The Adventure of the Bruce-Partington Plans”
“The Crooked Man”
“The Man with the Twisted Lip”
“The Greek Interpreter”
“The Resident Patient”
“The Naval Treaty”

“When this competition was first mooted I went into it in a most light-hearted way,” wrote Conan Doyle , “thinking that it would be the easiest thing in the world to pick out the twelve best of the Holmes stories. In practice I found that I had engaged myself in a serious task.” And those who call themselves Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts know that, though they may have begun reading the stories with an equally light heart, they soon found themselves going deeper and deeper into Holmes’ world in a much more serious way than they’d expected. Starting with Conan Doyle’s selections may set you down the very same path; when you finally come out the other side, feel free to name your own top twelve stories in the comments below.

For a quick way to read Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes stories, get The Complete Sherlock Holmes .

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Sherlock Holmes Book Review

Updated 05 October 2022

Subject Books

Downloads 62

Category Literature

Topic Sherlock Holmes

Books about Sherlock Holmes

There are numerous books devoted to the great detective Sherlock Holmes. Whether you prefer the classics or are new to the series, you can find the right book for you. This review is going to discuss some of the best books about the great detective. In particular, we'll cover The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes, The Adventure of the Speckled Band, and The Nine-Dragon Sigil.

The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes

The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes is a collection of stories written by Arthur Conan Doyle about the great detective. Unlike previous collections, the stories in this collection are darker, exploring treachery, mutilation, and the devastating effects of infidelity. The stories are also infused with gothic elements such as crypts and blood-sucking vampires. Author David Stuart Davies, a scholar and author of many books on Sherlock Holmes, wrote the Afterword for the Macmillan Collector's Library Sherlock Holmes volumes.

This collection contains twelve stories written by Sherlock Holmes. The stories are set in the gloomy world of the 1920s. Conan Doyle took advantage of the new conventions in fiction at the time to tell these stories, and The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes is an excellent example of his work.

Because of the copyright situation, the Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes isn't yet available for download in the United States. Copyright protection will be lifted in stages. By 2023, two stories from The Case-Book will be released in the public domain. A similar situation occurs in the United Kingdom and Canada.

The Case-Book of Sherlock Holmes was published in 1922 by John Murray in the UK and the George H. Doran Company in the US. The book's preface was written by Arthur Conan Doyle. It contains the stories of Sherlock Holmes and his friends.

The Adventure of the Speckled Band

The Adventure of the Speckled Band is one of the 56 short Sherlock Holmes stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It was published in February 1892 as the eighth story in his collection The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The story is a detective adventure set in Victorian London and is an entertaining read.

Many critics have praised the story, which has high drama and a believable solution. Watson declares that the mystery is dark and sinister. The story also features the famous swamp adder. The conclusion is satisfying and makes it one of the best Sherlock Holmes stories.

The Adventure of the Speckled Band is a classic entry in the Sherlock Holmes series. The story begins with the death of a twin sister, Julia. Helen Stoner seeks help from Sherlock Holmes and Watson to solve the mystery. Her dead twin sister, Julia, was murdered in a mysterious fashion. Her family believes that Dr. Roylott may be the killer.

The Adventure of the Speckled Band by Thomas Hardy reflects the moral philosophy of the Sherlock Holmes stories. It highlights the triumph of good over evil. While the characters aren't a nuanced mix, they ultimately triumph over the evil Dr. Roylott. Doyle's philosophy suggests that justice is the natural condition of human life and that good will prevail in the end.

The Nine-Dragon Sigil

A deadly Peking plot has Sherlock Holmes on a mission to foil. In order to stop the evil plan, he must use his skills and expertise to uncover the truth about an ancient Chinese relic. But before Holmes can save the day, he must stop a ruthless peking spy first.

Sherlock Holmes and the Nine-Dragon Sigil is available in a variety of formats, including print and ebook formats. You can pick up a copy of this classic at any good bookstore. If you're more technologically savvy, you can read this book on your tablet or phone by downloading it in Kindle, Kobo, or Nook format. Apple iBooks also has a digital version of the book.

As a fan of the Sherlock Holmes series, you'll want to pick up this book if you enjoy the adventures of the eponymous detective. There are three books in the series so far, and you'll probably want to read them all! The book also features an interview with Sherlock Holmes himself. The interview is part of a larger project that aims to highlight Holmes' skills.

The Mandala of Sherlock Holmes traces the adventures of the famous detective, including his adventures in India and Tibet. It also details his time as the famous Norwegian explorer Sigerson, as well as his adventures in Japan. A big challenge in hiatus novels is the absence of Watson, so the obvious solution is to find a local substitute - a local doctor or detective. The Japanese physician in The Curious Adventures of Sherlock Holmes in Japan, meanwhile, provides the narrator, a local man who helps him solve the mystery.

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